The Role of HDL in Coronary Artery Disease
Introduction
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a type of lipoprotein that helps to remove cholesterol from the arteries and transport it back to the liver. HDL is commonly known as "good cholesterol" because it helps to protect against the development of coronary artery disease (CAD).
HDL and CAD
In patients with CAD, HDL undergoes various modifications that can impair its function. These modifications include oxidation, glycation, and proteolysis. Oxidized HDL is less effective at removing cholesterol from the arteries and is more likely to promote inflammation.
Our Research
We recently conducted a study to investigate the effects of normal HDL and oxidized HDL on the development of CAD. We found that normal HDL can promote the regression of atherosclerosis, while oxidized HDL can accelerate the progression of atherosclerosis.
Clinical Implications
Our findings have important clinical implications. They suggest that increasing the levels of normal HDL in patients with CAD may help to slow the progression of the disease and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
Conclusion
HDL is a complex lipoprotein that plays an important role in the development of CAD. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms by which HDL is modified in patients with CAD and to develop new therapies that can increase the levels of normal HDL.
Comments